Solidago graminifolia, also known as grass leaved goldenrod, features slender arching stems and narrow grass like leaves. It produces beautiful and soft golden flower clusters in late summer.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, average to dry soil
Watering Needs: Low; thrives in dry, open areas
Deer Resistance: Generally avoided by deer
Native Status
This species is native to North America, especially the eastern and central United States. It is an important part of prairie and dry meadow ecosystems.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Supports Monarchs, Eastern Commas, and Painted Ladies during migration and late season feeding.
Bees
- Highly attractive to native bees, including sweat bees and long horned bees, during its late bloom.
Hummingbirds
- While not a primary food source, it may be part of mixed plantings that appeal to hummingbirds in fall.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow upright stems to develop without overcrowding.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for prairie gardens, meadow borders, pollinator habitats, and native plant restorations. Also works well in dry slopes and naturalized areas.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - A warm season grass that complements goldenrod’s fine texture and fall color.
- Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) - Adds vertical spikes and early bloom to pair with Solidago’s later display.
- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster) - Brings bold lavender blooms and extends the pollinator window through fall.
- Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower) - Offers nodding pink blooms earlier in the season, complementing goldenrod’s yellow hues.
- Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (Narrowleaf Mountain Mint) - Provides fragrant foliage and abundant pollinator activity, blending well in dry, sunny meadows.